Singapore (AFP)

Organizing the Singapore Formula 1 Grand Prix behind closed doors is "inconceivable," a spokesperson for the organization of the World Championship race, scheduled for September 20, said on Monday.

"Since the Singapore F1 Grand Prix is ​​on a city circuit, it is not feasible to organize the race behind closed doors," a spokesperson for the organization said.

The race usually covers the streets of the city-state of Southeast Asia, one of the most densely populated countries in the world with nearly 8,000 inhabitants per square kilometer.

"We will continue to monitor developments closely. Our top priority remains the well-being and safety of our fans, staff, volunteers and all Singaporeans," added the spokesperson.

The Grand Prix organizers said they were in talks with F1 leaders, the Singapore government and other stakeholders "to assess different possibilities" to organize the race, scheduled for September 20.

The Covid-19 pandemic has changed the calendar and the way of organizing the Formula 1 Grand Prix for the 2020 season.

After the postponement (Bahrain, Vietnam, China, Netherlands, Spain, Azerbaijan, Canada) or the cancellation (Australia, Monaco, France) of the first ten Grands Prix, the promoter Formula One "aims" to start the season on the 5th July in Spielberg (Austria) and a second GP the following Sunday on the same circuit.

Two consecutive GPs would follow at Silverstone (Great Britain), if the government gives the green light, and the Belgian GP at Spa-Francorchamps would be kept on August 30, each time in camera.

According to this scenario, the championship would end in December in Abu Dhabi and would count between fifteen and eighteen events, instead of twenty-two, when the regulations require eight races.

Formula One provides, at least initially, for GPs with no public and with a limited number of people on the paddock, whose state of health would be checked before traveling, upon arrival, and then every two days. The teams would be isolated from each other on the circuits, as well as from the general public outside (flights, on-site transport, hotels).

Singapore has been little affected by the Covid-19 pandemic: only 22 deaths have been reported, and just over 28,000 people have been infected.

© 2020 AFP